During a meeting at the White House, President Donald Trump shook hands with UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira and commented on the fighter's physical power. Trump stated that Pereira has a "BIG hand" and a "powerful hand," calling him "one of the best strikers in the history of this business." The post notes that Pereira's nickname "Poatan" translates from the Tupi indigenous language as "stone hand," making Trump's observation particularly fitting. The comments were captured during a live White House broadcast and reflect Trump's continued engagement with UFC fighters.
Alex Pereira made a visit to the White House on May 6, 2026, where President Donald Trump took note of the UFC light heavyweight champion's imposing physical presence — specifically the size and strength of his handshake.
Trump described Pereira as having a "BIG hand" and a "powerful hand," adding that he considered the Brazilian fighter "one of the best strikers in the history of this business." The remarks were broadcast live from the White House and drew attention online in part because of their unintentional connection to Pereira's identity: his nickname, "Poatan," derives from the Tupi indigenous language and translates directly as "stone hand."
Pereira, 38, holds a professional MMA record of 13 wins and 4 losses and currently reigns as the UFC light heavyweight champion. Standing six-foot-four with a 79-inch reach, the orthodox Brazilian trains out of Teixeira MMA and Fitness. His striking reputation is well-supported by his numbers — he lands 5.16 significant strikes per minute at an accuracy rate of 62 percent, figures that rank among the most efficient in the division.
Why it matters
- Trump's comments reinforce Pereira's mainstream crossover profile beyond the combat sports world
- The "stone hand" remark aligns with the literal meaning of Poatan, amplifying the moment's cultural resonance
- The visit reflects Trump's continued relationship with UFC fighters and the promotion's leadership
